Supplement Reviews

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

It is a natural hormone of the adrenal glands. DHEA is fat soluble
so it may have some cognitive effects by crossing the blood brain
barrier and may boost energy levels. Most of the circulating DHEA
is in the form of DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). DHEAS is water soluble.
DHEA actually converts into DHEA sulfate and androgens in the
liver.

It is called the “mother hormone” as it is a precursor to other
hormones including testosterone. DHEA levels peak at age 25 and then
decline from then on.

DHEA may serve a variety of purposes including cellular energy
production, fat metabolism, sexual maturation and muscle growth. One
study suggests that supplementation with DHEA in connection with a
vigorous exercise program may help increase lean muscle mass in
young adults with a concurrent loss of bodyfat.